Pets can catch COVID from their people »Albuquerque Journal

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This COVID-19 pandemic continues to hang over us like a dark cloud, with new variants putting unvaccinated people at increasing risk. Now we know that pets can get this from their people. New research has shown that dogs and cats exposed to COVID at home are significantly more vulnerable than homeless pets. Are we still having fun?

A study at the University of Guelph tested companion dogs and cats, those who stay in shelters and stray animals with no history of human contact. The results have been striking. About 70% of cats and 40% of dogs who lived with someone positive for COVID have themselves tested positive. Only 10% of shelter animals and just 3% of stray animals contracted the virus.

Most of the infected animals did not become physically ill, but dogs with symptoms lost their appetite and became lethargic. The cats had a runny nose and difficulty breathing. We can treat these pets, but we are saddened by the preventable diseases.

There were differences in species. Canine COVID infections had little to do with the number of human contacts, but cats that stayed close to a carrier were at higher risk. Those who slept on their sick bed were the most susceptible.

This study confirmed that people who contract COVID put their pets at risk; not the opposite. Dr Dorothee Bienzle, professor of veterinary pathology and co-author of the study, explained that we need not worry about contracting COVID from pets.

“At this point we have to assume that, if we are infected, our pets are also susceptible and they should be treated like any other member of the household. Dr Bienzle encourages sick people to wear a mask at home and to avoid contact with their pets. It would be a big challenge for all of us, vaccinated or not.

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Regardless of what each of us thinks about our personal freedoms, we can do whatever it takes for our pets, whose loyalty to us is unquestionable. Since there is no COVID vaccine for cats or dogs, we can protect them by getting vaccinated ourselves.

For help with behavior issues, you can sign up for a Zoom group conference on my website, drjeffnichol.com.

Dr. Jeff Nichol is a residency-trained veterinary behaviorist. He offers in-person and group consultations through Zoom (505-792-5131). Every week he shares a blog and a Facebook Live video to help bring out the best in pets and their people. Register for free at drjeffnichol.com. Ask questions about pets on facebook.com/drjeffnichol or by mail to 4000 Montgomery NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87109.